Video podcast vs webinar: What’s the difference?

It’s a question we’re often asked. What’s the difference between a video podcast and a webinar?

Podcasts are massively popular, and their numbers are increasing by the day. Should you make the most of this growing trend? Or, in this era of digital learning, would a webinar offer greater value?

Both are long-form digital media — a great way to share valuable, detailed information with your audience. But how do they differ from each other?

In this article, we’re looking at the key differences between a video podcast and a webinar, the benefits of each format and the circumstances in which they could be used.

But first, let’s define what they actually are.

Webinar

Webinars are live online events which focus on specific topics. The organiser sets a fixed time slot for the webinar and you register to attend, sometimes paying a fee. At the appointed time, you log in on your phone, computer or tablet.

Webinars are designed to be interactive in real time. The presenter shares their screen to show slides or videos and while watching, you can ask questions or contribute via the chat function, and take part in polls or quizzes.

Not everyone can attend on the day, so webinars are usually recorded and made available to view at a later date.

Video podcast

Video podcasts are a bit like magazine format TV shows. They can cover a whole range of subject matter — news, politics, entertainment, informative content, interviews with thought leaders and experts. They can be presented by one individual or hosted by a team.

While some video podcasts are broadcast live, most are pre-recorded, with the best examples professionally produced in a video studio. Podcasts are available to download for free, and you can watch at your own convenience, pause, resume and replay whenever you like.

This on-the-go accessibility is a big selling point, so the most popular video podcasts work equally well as audio-only. They should also include subtitles or audio descriptions. That way, the audience can easily access the content while doing something else — commuting, driving or going for a walk.

What are the main differences?

The major difference between webinars and podcasts is the way they’re consumed.

• Webinars are live, with a focus on real-time interactive engagement.
• Video podcasts are usually pre-recorded and can be accessed on-demand.

Each of these consumption methods offers advantages. With a webinar format, the real-time interaction with your audience delivers a wealth of opportunity for engagement. Podcasting is less immediate, but the engagement can be deeper and more personal because you’re fitting in with the audience’s schedule.

Subject matter and tone

Webinars generally cover a single subject in detail, so they’re often used as a way to share knowledge and information. They’re a valuable tool for education and training, but can also be used in marketing — product launches, for instance.

Podcasts tend to range far and wide over broader themes. Presenters choose topics they’re passionate about, and build a loyal listener base amongst people who share that interest.

There may be a difference in tone between the two formats. Podcasts have a conversational and informal feel whereas webinars are more structured. The tone shouldn’t be overly formal — but because a webinar’s principal purpose is information-sharing, the presenter has to sound confident, professional and credible.

Audience targeting

With webinars, audience members sign up to take part, and may pay to attend. This audience could be smaller, but they’re highly engaged with the subject matter which makes them easier to target.

Podcasts are free and accessible to everyone so the audience is potentially larger. However, they can be more difficult to accurately target.

When to use a webinar

Webinars are an excellent way to interact directly with your audience. From the attendee’s point of view, they’re getting the information they need, plus the chance to contribute and ask questions.

Here are a few situations where webinars work best:

• You want to share valuable expertise and establish yourself as an industry thought leader.
• You’re training or teaching others about a specific topic.
• You wish to reach and interact with an audience based in multiple locations.
• The subject is complex, and a webinar offers the space and time for a clear explanation.
• You’re presenting a new product to a target audience and want to answer their questions.

When to use a video podcast

A well-produced video podcast has the potential to draw a huge audience — people who might otherwise be difficult to reach through other forms of marketing.

Here are some examples of when to choose a video podcast:

• You want to increase brand awareness by attracting a large, loyal audience.
• You’re passionate about a particular topic and want to raise awareness.
• You wish to increase credibility by sharing your expertise, plus the insights of other experts.
• Your goal is to reach an entirely new audience
• You need a consistent stream of short-form content for your website and social media channels.

Conclusion

Ultimately, the choice of webinar or video podcast will come down to your target audience, the type of content you wish to share and the overall objective.
Webinars are a great way to build credibility and start a real-time conversation with your target market. On the other hand, video podcasts are unbeatable for brand awareness. You can find a niche, an untapped market, then connect with loyal followers who are on your wavelength.

Are you interested in creating a video podcast? Whether you’re a seasoned podcaster, or a complete beginner, our video producers are ready to help. Get in touch with the Videofrog team and we’ll talk you through how it works.